MTB brake rotors

How to choose an MTB brake rotor

Rotor diameter is the simplest way to gain braking power without changing the caliper. Shimano, SRAM, Magura, Hope, Galfer and Clarks cover both mounting standards.

Which diameter for my riding?

• 160 mm : cross-country, lightweight bikes, less demanding terrain.
• 180 mm : trail and all-mountain, the most versatile option.
• 200 to 203 mm : enduro, downhill and e-MTB riding, where weight and long descents demand power.
• Any change in diameter requires thecaliper adapter corresponding.

Centre Lock or 6-bolt?

• It is the hub that determines the standard, not the brake.
• Centre Lock : quick splined lockring fitting.
• 6-bolt : six Torx bolts, the original standard.
• An adapter allows a 6-bolt rotor to be fitted to a Centre Lock hub.

Which construction?

• Rotors with sandwich construction with an aluminium core (Ice-Tech, Storm HC, Centerline X…) dissipate heat better on long descents.
• A thicker braking track resists heat distortion better, useful on e-MTBs.
• Some rotors are limited to organic brake pads : the words Resin Pad Only are marked on the braking track.

When should it be replaced?

The minimum thickness is engraved on the rotor, most often 1.5 mm. A blued, warped rotor or one below this limit must be replaced: no new pad will compensate for a worn rotor.

To find out more: How to choose MTB brake rotors

See also: MTB brake pads · Complete MTB brakes · Disc brake adapters